A new model for the design and analysis of trickle bed reactors

A new discrete model was developed for the design and analysis of catalytic trickle bed reactors operating in the low interaction regime based on the local structure of packed beds. By detailed comparisons of model predictions to experimental data the performance of the new model is demonstrated.By means of this model the steady-state behavior of trickle bed reactors can be studied in terms of operating conditions, physical properties of all three phases, transport parameters and isothermal reaction kinetics on a particle as well as on a reactor scale.

► A new model for the design and analysis of catalytic trickle bed reactors was developed.
► Local liquid distribution is obtained as a function of operating conditions and physical properties of all three phases.
► Impact of local incomplete wetting on conversion is taken into account.
► Modeling of the kinetics and mass transport on a particle as well as on a reactor scale.
► Performance is demonstrated by comparison of model predictions to experimental data.